Placencia: Xunantunich Maya Ruin & Blue Hole Tour

Cayo District, Belize



Explore ancient Mayan ruins at Xunantunich and swim in the Blue Hole on a guided tour from Placencia with included transport and lunch.

This full-day tour from Placencia explores the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and includes a swim in the Blue Hole cenote in Belize’s Cayo District.

Highlights

  • Stand atop El Castillo and peer into Guatemala
  • Explore the ancient ruins of Xunantunich with a knowledgeable guide
  • Swim in the Blue Hole, a natural cenote surrounded by tropical forest
  • Enjoy a scenic drive along the Hummingbird Highway

Description

Begin with a scenic drive along the Hummingbird Highway, passing karst limestone formations and orange groves. Cross the Mopan River on a vintage ferry to reach the hilltop Xunantunich archaeological site.

Climb the 130-foot El Castillo temple and look into Guatemala. Your guide will show you six major plazas and more than twenty-five temples and palaces, explaining aspects of ancient Mayan life. See the preserved frieze on the east side of El Castillo featuring a fiberglass replica of the sun god’s central mask.

After exploring the ruins, travel to Blue Hole National Park. Take a short hike through tropical forest to the Blue Hole cenote for a refreshing swim before returning to Placencia.

Includes

  • Pickup and drop-off in Placencia Village
  • Transportation
  • Park fees
  • Tour guide
  • Lunch

Excludes

  • Tips

Important Information

  • Fitness level required: low to moderate

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and water. The tour operates daily, and morning departures are recommended to avoid midday heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a scenic drive along the Hummingbird Highway, guided exploration of Xunantunich ruins, swimming in the Blue Hole cenote, and crossing the Mopan River by ferry.
Xunantunich is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in the Cayo District of Belize near the Mopan River.
Yes, the tour includes time to swim in the Blue Hole, a natural cenote surrounded by tropical forest in Belize.
This is a full-day tour, typically lasting around 8 to 10 hours; check the tour provider's website for exact timing.
Yes, the drive passes through karst limestone formations, orange groves, and lush tropical landscapes in Belize's Cayo District.
A knowledgeable local guide leads the exploration, providing historical and cultural insights about the Maya site.
It is recommended to bring swimwear and a towel to enjoy swimming in the Blue Hole during the tour.
Yes, crossing the Mopan River by vintage ferry is included as you arrive at the Xunantunich archaeological site.
Yes, from the top of El Castillo pyramid at Xunantunich, you can view parts of neighboring Guatemala from Belize's Cayo District.
The tour operates year-round; check the website for current availability and recommended visiting times in Belize.

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